How to Sort Text Files Using Notepad++ 'notepad ++ sort on column'

As a web developer or programmer, you often encounter text files that require sorting based on specific criteria. In this article, we will discuss how to sort text files by character length using the popular text editor, Notepad++. We will also explore alternative methods to achieve similar results.

One way to sort text files is by using the command line. You can open a terminal window and run the `ls` command to list all files in a directory, followed by the `-l` option to display file sizes. However, this method may not be as intuitive or user-friendly as using a dedicated text editor.

In Notepad++, you can sort lines by their length using the TextFX menu. To do so, go to Text FX > TextFX Tools > Sort lines case sensitive (at column). This will prompt you to select the column based on which you want to sort the lines. In this case, click on 'Length' to sort the lines by character length.

Another method is to use the `awk` command in combination with the `sort` program. You can use the following code: `awk '{print length}' | sort -n`. This will sort the lines based on their length and display them in a sorted order from shortest to longest.

If you prefer a graphical interface, you can also use online tools such as the Text Length Sorter web developer tool. Simply paste your text into the form, click the 'Sort Lines' button, and you will get a list of sorted lines based on their length.

In conclusion, sorting text files by character length is a simple task that can be achieved using Notepad++, command line tools, or online tools. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice ultimately depends on your personal preference and the specific requirements of your project.

Notepad ++ sort on column